6 Things to Consider When Selecting a Family Lawyer in Orange County

Choosing a family lawyer in Orange County, California is a big investment.

Sure, it can be a financial burden, but you’re also putting your lives in their hands. We know you want the best outcome for you and your family.

No matter the situation, family court cases can be overwhelming and emotionally exhausting.

The best things you can do are understand your options and find a qualified lawyer to assess your case. Plan ahead to make the entire process a little less complicated.

Take these factors into consideration when selecting a family lawyer in Orange County.

1. Evaluate your financial situation.

In order for your family law lawyer in Orange County to properly assess your case, you need to be honest and transparent about your financial situation. Don’t try to hide something and wait for your partner to bring it up in court.

The judge and courts take several factors into consideration when evaluating your case. They’ll look at all your property including your home, vehicles, and other valuables such as jewelry. They consider all debts and assets including stocks, bank accounts, 401ks, and rental deposits.

What’s your financial outlook post-divorce or separation? Be honest about career and income because it’s your lawyers job to help you as much as possible.

2. Assess your communication level.

Most couples don’t enter a divorce, separation, or family court case because they communicate well. Lack of communication could be what got you to this situation in the first place.

However, your family law case doesn’t have to be complicated. Start out by assessing how well you communicate with your partner. If you are willing to work on your communication skills, family lawyers in Orange County can help you will several options.

By opting for alternative dispute resolution, you can keep the kids out of the court room and even save some money. Mediation is a type of dispute resolution that involves working with a third-party mediator instead of a judge. This takes place without your family lawyer present.

Collaborative divorce is another alternative dispute resolution option which involves meeting outside of the court room to avoid unnecessary arguing. When considering family lawyers in Orange County, make sure they have experience specifically in collaborative divorce.

3. Shop local.

You might find a less expensive attorney a few towns over, but there are a few reasons why you should opt for a family lawyer in Orange County.

Laws vary state-by-state, county-by-county, and even city-by-city. You’ll want a lawyer who thoroughly understands the local laws for your particular jurisdiction. They’ll also have community experience working with the local courts as well as other lawyers and judges.

You never know when you might need to meet with your family law lawyer in Orange County. What if there’s an emergency? Selecting a local attorney makes it easier to schedule appointments, consultations, and court dates.

When in doubt: ask around, read local reviews, and check with the local bar association.

4. Consider your parental rights with the help a family lawyer.

The courts take many things into account when determining child custody. Meet with your family lawyer in Orange County to assess your case and determine your options.

There are two types of child custody: legal and physical. The parent with legal custody is responsible for making the child’s or children’s important decisions when it comes to factors such as education and healthcare. Physical custody refers to where the child resides.

If you plan on maintaining communication with your partner, California also offers joint custody options. This custody gives both parents the ability to make important decisions and collaborate.

5. Prepare to seek or face support payments.

If you and your partner have children and you are planning a divorce or separation, support payments could become involved.

The state of California uses a formula for determining child support payments. This takes many factors into consideration such as income, assets, and stability as well as time spent with the child or children.

One spouse may also be eligible for support payments if their financial situation is negatively impacted by the divorce. Some partners may also request support if they sacrificed career opportunities to the benefit of the other partner.

Whether you’re seeking or facing support payments, the best thing you can do is understand your options. Meet with a family law lawyer in Orange County to discuss your goals and needs.

6. Plan your time and budget.

The length of time you can expect to invest depends on your particular case.

All marriage dissolutions take at least six months. That’s the required amount of time based on California state law. However, the process can take longer if both parties find themselves at-odds or run into other legal issues.

Domestic violence cases vary based on the details of each particular case. Restraining and personal protection orders go into effect immediately, but the legal or financial repercussions could take much longer to sort out.

After separation, determining child custody and support could also extend your court case. If your partner fails to deliver on support, are you prepared to follow-up with legal action over the years?

This is why it’s so important to meet with experienced family lawyers in Orange County who will take the time to understand your case.

Meet with an Orange County Divorce Attorney Today.

You probably have a lot of questions and uncertainties. Family law cases are never easy, but they don’t have to be overly complicated.

Meet with an Orange County divorce attorney or family lawyer to discuss your options and assess your case. At Yanez & Associates, we’re experienced and we provide free consultations so there’s no risk to you. Plus, we’re available 24/7! Give us a call today.

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Truly remarkable Lawyer....Where do I even begin....
... assigned to my children as minors counsel in our highly conflicted case. Her professionalism, honesty, & unbiased opinion ... My children felt safe, protected, & happy whenever they spoke with her too, which was most important to me as a Father.
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